Binghamton University voluntarily withdraws from American East tournament

Binghamton University said Monday that its men's basketball team will not participate in the America East Conference tournament this week.

The Bearcats, who finished fifth in the league's regular-season standings, had a rocky offseason in which coach Kevin Broadus was suspended from his position amid recruiting violations, drug charges to current players and rumors of other NCAA violations.

"After numerous discussions and considerations of the possible distractions that may occur this weekend, Binghamton University has elected not to participate in the 2010 America East Men's Basketball tournament," school president Lois B. DeFleur said in a statement released by the school Monday.

"This action is being done voluntarily as part of our commitment to move forward as we develop a comprehensive plan to address the recommendations of the recent review.

"We commend our student-athletes and coaches for the dedication and determination they have maintained throughout this very challenging year. They have far surpassed expectations. However with the controversy currently surrounding the program it is not appropriate we play in this year's post-season."

This season, interim head coach Mark Macon led the Bearcats to a 13-18 record, including 8-8 in America East play.

America East commissioner Patrick Nero released a statement of his own about Binghamton's decision to withdraw from the tournament.

"We support Binghamton University's decision, it is an important step forward," Nero said. "Our attention now is focused on the men's and women's teams competing this weekend."

The America East tournament would have tipped off Friday with a play-in game between UMBC and Albany, but now with only eight teams playing in the tournament the action will begin on Saturday.

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